Assignment topic:

‘Doing Business in the United Kingdom’

Course Code: INB303, Section: 02

Submitted To: Dr. Safayet Rahman

Submitted By:
Name ID
Sanjida Afrin Jui 1930462
Rezwan Bhuiyan Siam 2022234
Rifath Bin Basher Tamim 1930884

Rakin Mahtab Rafi 2010421

Jannatul Ferdous Mim Maydha 2020104
Date of submission: 06.08.2023

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 LETTER OF SUBMISSION

06-08-2023
To,
Dr. Safayet Rahman
Assistant Professor,
Ph.D. in Management, Universiti Brunei Darussalam
School of Business & Entrepreneurship
Independent University, Bangladesh.
Subject: Report on “Doing Business in the United Kingdom”

Dear Sir,
Assalamualaikum, We the students of section 2 have done the report on the United Kingdom. We
are pleased to submit the report “Doing Business in the United Kingdom”. The report covers a
range of topics, including cultural considerations, communication strategies, and etiquette customs
that are pivotal for building strong and successful business relationships in the UK market.
We are confident that this report will be an invaluable tool for companies looking to enter or
grow their operations in the UK. We are excited about the chance to advance knowledge of the
UK business environment.
May we, therefore, pray and hope that you will be cordial enough to our hard work and oblige us
thereby.

Sincerely,
Sanjida Afrin Jui
Rezwan Bhuiyan Siam
Rifath Bin Basher Tamim
Rakin Mahtab Rafi
Jannatul Ferdous Mim Maydha

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 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The report titled “Doing Business in the United Kingdom” provides a comprehensive overview of
the various factors involved in conducting business in the UK. It explores the UK's economic
landscape, cultural dimensions, communication, diversity, family values, and etiquettes. By
understanding these key aspects, international managers and exporters can effectively navigate the
complexities of the UK market and establish fruitful business relationships.

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 Table of Contents

LETTER OF SUBMISSION ........................................................................................................ 2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................................... 3
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 5
FACTS & STATUSTICS ABOUT THE UK ............................................................................... 6
UK LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION ................................................................................ 6
UK SOCIETY AND CULTURE .................................................................................................. 7
Culture........................................................................................................................................ 7
UK Diversity .............................................................................................................................. 7
UK Family Values ...................................................................................................................... 8
ETIQUETTE AND CUSTOMS IN UK .................................................................................... 10
Meeting Etiquette .................................................................................................................... 10
Gift-Giving Etiquette .............................................................................................................. 10
Dining Etiquette: ......................................................................................................................11
BUSINESS WTIQUETTE & PROTOCOL IN THE UK.........................................................11
Relationship and communication: ..........................................................................................11
Business Negotiation: ...............................................................................................................11
Business meeting etiquette: .................................................................................................... 12
Dress etiquette: ........................................................................................................................ 14
Business cards:......................................................................................................................... 14
CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................................... 15
Reference: .................................................................................................................................... 15

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 INTRODUCTION

Doing business in the United Kingdom (UK) can be an enriching venture due to the country's
strong economy, favorable business environment, and strategic global position. The UK has one
of the world's largest and most diversified economies. London is a prominent financial center in
this multi-national financial hub. This economic strength offers a solid basis for the operation and
expansion of businesses. The UK provides a business-friendly environment with clear regulations
and a tested legal framework.
Due to its advantageous location, the UK serves as a fantastic entry point to both European and
global markets. Trade and business collaborations are made easier by its well-connected
transportation and communication infrastructure. In the UK, English is widely used in business.
However, to succeed in the competitive UK market, Exporters must navigate various challenges
and understand the key aspects of doing business in the UK. As businesses expand their global
reach, international managers face the challenge of adapting to different cultures and business
practices. It is important to understand the culture of a country for successful deals in international
business.

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 FACTS & STATUSTICS ABOUT THE UK

▪ Location: The United Kingdom is located off the coast of Europe in western Europe. Over
700 smaller islands make up most of it, along with the island of Great Britain and the
northern portion of the island of Ireland.
▪ Capital: London serves as the UK's administrative center. With over 8 million residents,
London is the most populated city in the United Kingdom.
▪ Climate: The UK has a temperate climate with cool summers and mild winters. In January,
London's average temperature is 52°F (11°C), and in July, it's 71°F (22°C).
▪ Ethnic makeup: The UK is a multicultural nation with residents from all over the world.
White British citizens (86%), Asians (7%), Blacks (3%), and Mixed (2%), in that order,
make up the largest ethnic groups in the UK.
▪ Religions: The majority of people in the UK identify as Christians (52%), Muslims (4%),
Hindus (2%), Sikhs (1%), and Jews (1%).
▪ Government: The United Kingdom has a parliamentary system of government and is a
constitutional monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II is the reigning monarch at the moment, and
Boris Johnson is the prime minister.
▪ Population: There are approximately 67 million people living in the UK.
▪ Area: The United Kingdom covers approximately 93,630 square miles (242,495 square
kilometers) of land.
▪ GDP: The UK's GDP is estimated to be $2.8 trillion.
▪ Currency: The British pound sterling (£) serves as the nation's unit of exchange.
▪ Official languages: English, Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and Cornish are the official languages
of the United Kingdom.

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 UK LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION

English is the official language of the UK. It is spoken by most of the population, and it is the
language of business, government, and education. There are also several other languages spoken
in the UK, including Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and Irish. Even though only a small portion of the
country speaks these languages, they are vital to UK culture. When conducting business in the UK,
it is crucial to be aware of the various tongues used there. If exporters struggle to communicate
with business partners because of their limited English proficiency, they should look for a
translator or interpreter.
British professionals favor directness and honesty over indirectness and clumsiness in their
communication. Having a direct and straightforward communication style as an international
manager improves business relations in the UK.

UK SOCIETY AND CULTURE

Culture
The diverse cultural landscape of the UK influences many business-related factors. In every
country, culture has a significant impact on management practices. Several cultural factors
influence how management styles are shaped in the UK:
▪ Individualism: The UK is well known for its individualistic culture, which strongly
values personal success and autonomy. An international manager must recognize the
value of each employee's distinctive contributions and promote a spirit of cooperation
and teamwork within the workplace.
▪ Low Power Distance: Due to the UK's typically low power distance compared to some
other cultures, hierarchical structures there are less rigid. This translates into management
practices that value collective decision-making and value team members' contributions,
regardless of their hierarchical positions.
▪ Long-Term Orientation: The UK tends to be more long-term oriented and values
perseverance and sustainability in business practices. A manager's strategic and forward-
thinking approach is well received in the UK business environment.

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UK Diversity

The United Kingdom is a multicultural nation with an intriguing history and culture. People from
all over the world live there, and the culture there is a fusion of those influences. The following
are some noteworthy aspects of the UK's diversity:
▪ Religion: Despite being a secular country, the UK has a diverse range of religious practices.
The largest religious groups are Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs.
▪ Languages: The UK is home to many different languages, including Welsh, Scottish Gaelic,
and Cornish, despite the fact that English is the official tongue.
▪ Ethnicity: People from all over the world make up the multiethnic population of the United
Kingdom. White, Asian, and Black people make up the top three ethnic groups in Britain.
▪ The UK's culture is fluid and a synthesis of many influences. Some of the UK's most
significant cultural expressions include its music, art, literature, and cuisine.

One of the UK's advantages is its diversity. As a result, living and working there is exciting and
lively. It also implies that there are many different cultures and life experiences to study.

UK Family Values

It is crucial to understand UK family values in the context of export business. The UK society
values families highly, which encourages a good work-life balance and supports parental leave.
For foreign managers looking to succeed in the British market when it comes to export business,
understanding the significance of UK family values is essential. One of the cornerstones of UK
family values is the value placed on ties to one's family. People's decisions and commitments are
influenced by family members, who are seen as pillars of emotional stability and support. A
fundamental expression of British family values is the value of work-life balance. British workers
value family time very highly and work hard to strike a good balance between their personal and
professional lives.
The availability of parental leave for first-time parents is a crucial component of UK family values.
The United Kingdom supports families during major life transitions by providing statutory
maternity and paternity leave. Diverse family structures are accepted by UK family values. Single
parents, same-sex couples with kids, and large extended families can all make up modern families
in the UK. Intergenerational support is another noteworthy aspect of UK family values. Family
members frequently support one another when facing difficulties. In the UK, people place a high
value on cultural traditions and family gatherings. For many people, holidays like Christmas and
Easter as well as other religious and cultural festivals are very important. UK family values place

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a strong emphasis on the value of education and personal development. In the UK, parents place a
high priority on their kids' education and growth because they see it as essential to their future
success.
By supporting employee development and training opportunities, export businesses can show their
dedication to the long-term prosperity of their workforce. The development of successful and long-
lasting relationships in the UK export business landscape is ultimately facilitated by adapting
business strategies to be in line with these values. It also increases employee satisfaction and
loyalty.

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 ETIQUETTE AND CUSTOMS IN UK

Meeting Etiquette

▪ Punctuality: In the UK, arriving on time is crucial. For meetings and appointments, be a
few minutes early.
▪ Greetings: In the UK, business practices are frequently viewed favorably for their
endurance and sustainability. Business leaders in the UK are rewarded for their strategic
and forward-thinking approaches.
▪ Politeness: British people are renowned for their politeness. It's imperative to use the words
"please" and "thank you" in all interactions.
▪ The British respect each other's personal space. When speaking, keep a respectful distance.
▪ Small Talk: It's customary to engage in light conversation to build rapport before beginning
a business conversation.
▪ Direct Communication: British people frequently use more subtle and formal language
when speaking. It's important to interpret the conversation's context and read between the
lines.

Gift-Giving Etiquette

▪ Occasions: Major occasions like birthdays, Christmas, and other holidays are when gifts
are typically given and received.
▪ Modesty: Gifts are frequently wrapped attractively and neatly. A card and good wrapping
paper are greatly appreciated. The British typically prefer thoughtful, modest gifts over
extravagant ones.
▪ Opening Gifts: Unless the giver specifically requests otherwise, open any gifts you receive
in private.
▪ Thank You Notes: Thank You Cards Writing a handwritten note of gratitude is a thoughtful
way to express your gratitude for a gift or hospitality.

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Dining Etiquette:

▪ Table Manners: Napkin on your lap, elbows off the table, and chew with your mouth closed.
Wait until everyone is served before starting to eat.
▪ Utensils: Work from the outside when using multiple utensils. Fork in the left hand, knife
in the right.
▪ Tea and Coffee: Tea drinking is very popular in Britain. To prevent scalding the porcelain
when adding milk to tea, it is customary to pour the milk after the tea.
▪ Tipping: In restaurants and when using services like taxis, tips are expected. Usually, 10%
to 15% of the total bill is deemed appropriate.
▪ Toast: It's common to raise your glass for toast. In more formal situations, wait for the host
or hostess to initiate the toast.

BUSINESS ETIQUETTE & PROTOCOL IN THE UK

Relationship and communication:

Business relationships and communication styles there are affected by the general business
climate, cultural norms, and etiquette in the UK. Here are some critical considerations:

▪ Formality and Courtesy: Business communication in the UK is frequently formal and

polite. Never address someone by their first name unless you have their consent (i.e., Mr.
Smith, Mrs. Johnson). Even in more casual settings, it's crucial to act with decency and
respect.
▪ Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued in the UK. One might interpret being late for
meetings or appointments as disrespectful. It is advisable to plan ahead and allow extra
time in case of delays.
▪ Directness: In comparison to some other cultures, the British communication style is
renowned for being somewhat indirect. People may express their disagreements or
opinions through hints or oblique language. To fully understand the intended message,
it's critical to read between the lines and comprehend the context.

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 ▪ The British have a reputation for having a sense of humor that frequently combines irony,
sarcasm, and wit. Even though using humor in the workplace is acceptable, it's best to use
caution, especially when around strangers or in more formal settings.
▪ Developing a personal network is crucial in the business culture of the UK. By talking to
people and expressing interest in their personal lives, you can build successful business
relationships.
▪ British negotiators frequently display diplomacy and favor cooperative solutions when
resolving disputes. They may not make rash decisions and frequently take their time to
carefully consider suggestions. When disagreements do arise, they prefer a respectful and
constructive dialogue to resolve them.
▪ When communicating in writing, maintain a professional demeanor and avoid using
overly sentimental language. Letters and emails need to be organized, concise, and clear.
▪ Dress Code: Depending on the setting and industry, different attire is expected. Despite
the fact that business attire is typically conservative and formal, it's crucial to be aware of
the specific company's or event's requirements.
▪ Meetings: Agendas and well-planned meetings are a common occurrence. Be ready, and
if you must speak, make sure it is courteous and brief. Pay attention during meetings, and
wait your turn to speak.
▪ Follow-up: To express gratitude for the other person's time and effort, it is customary to
send a thank-you email or note following meetings or other business encounters.

The population of the UK is diverse, and regional and industry-specific practices may vary.
Always remember to adapt your communication style and technique to the circumstance and the
audience. Managing business relationships in the UK will be simpler if you are polite,
professional, and aware of local business customs.

Business Negotiation:
The structure of business negotiations in the UK is comparable to that in other Western nations,
but there are particular cultural considerations and etiquette that must be made. The following
procedures can help you negotiate a deal in the UK:

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 ▪ As was already mentioned, it is essential to build strong rapport and relationships in the
business culture of the UK. Get to know your coworkers and genuinely show interest in
both their personal and professional lives. Small talk is typically used to open a business
conversation.
▪ British negotiators value decency and diplomacy highly. Maintain a courteous and
respectful demeanor throughout the negotiation process, even when there are
disagreements. Avoid being aggressive or confrontational; doing so might come off as
unprofessional.
▪ British negotiators frequently use ambiguous language and subtlety. Be prepared to
interpret nuances and pay close attention for cues or suggestions. It could be taken as
impolite if you communicate in an overly direct or blunt manner.
▪ In UK business negotiations, careful preparation is crucial. Do some research on your
meeting partners, their company, and the industry before the meeting. Understanding their
needs and concerns will make it simpler to come up with solutions that satisfy everyone.
▪ Respect the importance of punctuality in the UK. To prevent wasting time, meetings should
start and end on time. Being a valuable resource, time can be wasted in a negative way.
▪ UK negotiators typically prefer a cooperative and collaborative approach. Find win-win
solutions with a strong emphasis, and be willing to compromise. Don't use aggressive sales
tactics or make unreasonable demands because they might backfire.
▪ British negotiators place a high value on thorough thought and analysis, so they might take
their time making a decision. If you put pressure on your counterparts to make decisions
right away, it might be seen as rude and could harm the negotiation process.
▪ Contracts are typically used to formalize an agreement's terms in writing. Make sure both
parties are aware of the terms and that all the details are accurately recorded before signing
the agreement.

Business meeting etiquette:

Business meeting etiquette in the UK are:
▪ Punctuality: Show respect for other people's time by arriving on time for meetings.
▪ Formality: Throughout the meeting, act in a formal and courteous manner.

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 ▪ Introductions: Start with formal introductions, using last names until first names are
requested.
▪ Light Small Talk: Before getting into Business Matters, engage in light Small Talk.
▪ Active Listening: Pay attention to others and participate actively in conversations by
listening.
▪ Agenda: Follow the meeting agenda to maintain concentration and productivity.
▪ Directness: Communication may be subtle, so pay attention to the subtleties.
▪ Making decisions: Give yourself enough time to consider your options without pressuring
others.
▪ Follow-Up: To show your appreciation after the meeting, send a thank-you note or email.

Dress etiquette:
In the UK, business attire protocol is typically formal and conservative:
▪ Men should dress professionally in dark suits, collared shirts, and ties. The preferred color
scheme is traditional.
▪ Choose tailored dresses, skirts, or pants with blouses, as well as coordinated suits in neutral
colors, for women.
▪ Skirts should be just below the knee or at least knee-length.
▪ Both men and women should wear well-kept, closed-toe shoes.
▪ Keep jewelry and other accessories to a minimum and in good taste.
▪ Maintain a neat appearance with neat nails, well-groomed hair, and minimal makeup.

Business cards:
▪ Use both hands to offer and accept cards.
▪ Make an introduction while exchanging cards.
▪ Before storing the received card, read it.
▪ Handle cards with care and refrain from writing on them.
▪ Always keep your cards professional and up to date.
▪ Steer clear of pushy card distribution.
▪ Be mindful of cultural variations when exchanging cards.

Making a good impression and developing business relationships in the UK can be accomplished
by adhering to these etiquettes.

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 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, doing business in the UK presents a variety of opportunities and difficulties. The
nation is a good place to develop because it has a robust economy and unambiguous business
regulations. We've discovered the value of clear communication and the importance of speaking
English.
Because the UK is home to so many diverse cultures, it's important to respect each one and be
knowledgeable about its unique customs. People in the UK value both independent success and
teamwork. They like involving everyone in planning and making decisions.
The UK has a diverse population of families and cultures. Understanding how people support one
another and value family time can help business relationships. When interacting with others and
communicating, it is important to respect local traditions. It's important to be courteous, punctual,
and thoughtful when giving gifts. Additionally, knowing how to act can help you make a good
impression at meals and gatherings.
In a nutshell, Understanding the UK's culture, economy, and social dynamics is necessary for
conducting business there. Business can operate smoothly and successfully if you respect their
methods and are conscious of your differences. This report offers helpful guidance for those
looking to succeed in the UK business community.

Reference:

▪ Digital collaboration with best-in-class customs agents. (n.d.). https://customs-broker-

integration/index.php?utm_campaign=customsbroker&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source
▪ Export Filing: CHIEF/CDS from AEB optimizes UK customs declarations. (n.d.).
https://www.aeb.com/en/export-filing-chief-
▪ Export goods from the UK: step by step - GOV.UK. (n.d.). https://www.gov.uk/export-
goods
▪ Small Business UK. (2022). A step-by-step guide to shipping and exporting goods. Small
Business UK. https://smallbusiness.co.uk/a-stepbystep-guide-to-shipping-and-exporting
▪ García, B. G. (n.d.). The Observatory of Economic Complexity | OEC. OEC - the
Observatory of Economic Complexity. https://oec.world/en

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